I don't know how to answer the first question. I use a private board (boo on the elitist!)

But for the second question, I write for me. I am my audience. Then I just make sure that I can broaden that audience (watch for things that turn people off books; language, info dumps, etc) and then edit accordingly.

Hmm, I guess I didn't really know what a message board was! Oops. I do feel compelled to check out Absolute Write now, so I'm glad you asked. ☺As for finding readers, hmm, I guess I met my critique group through WriteOnCon. :)

I've also found more success connecting with readers via my blog and Twitter than I have with my FB fan page. I'd be curious to hear if anyone participating in the blogfest has had success with their fan page.

I don't spend a lot of time on message boards right now. One of my critique partner does and she passes along news to us. I do love Guide to Literary Agents.

I think I connect with readers by trying to understand my audience. I was born an observer of people often times to my detriment because I'm ultra sensitive. My critique partners help me a lot with keeping my stories believable, even though they are fantasy;)

I love to write romances - fantasy, paranormal, time travels, and Regency; for adults and YA. I don't want to get boxed in by genre -- I might be claustrophobic!
I'm also a freelance editor and an editor at MuseItUp Publishing. Additionally, I am also a ghostwriter.
When I'm not writing about girls wanting to be knights, talking unicorns, or zombies, I love spending time with my loving and growing family. I enjoy riding horses (pretending they're unicorns, of course!) and going to the PA Renaissance Faire, dressed in garb.
Nicole.Zoltack@gmail.com is my email. Feel free to contact me!